The Oyo State APC Youth Leader, Olalekan Glory, has criticised the relocation of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) CAF Confederation Cup home fixture from Ibadan to Abeokuta, describing the development as another indication of the alleged shortcomings of the Seyi Makinde administration.
Glory, in a statement obtained by InsideOut Media Hub, expressed disappointment that the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, could not reportedly secure approval to host the continental fixture despite the state government’s reported expenditure of over ₦5.5 billion on its renovation.
According to him, the development raises serious questions about accountability, value for money and the management of public resources.
He noted that the state government had repeatedly presented the renovation of the stadium as a flagship achievement and upgraded the facility to international standards, making its reported failure to meet CAF requirements a matter that demands public explanation.
“Oyo people deserve answers,” Glory said, questioning where the reported ₦5.5 billion was spent, the scope of work approved, who supervised the project and the standards applied to the renovation.
He called on the state government to make available the relevant contracts, expenditure records, technical specifications, inspection reports and certification documents relating to the stadium project for public scrutiny.
The APC Youth Leader further demanded an independent and transparent technical and financial audit of the Lekan Salami Stadium renovation, insisting that any shortcomings established should be addressed and those found responsible held accountable.
Beyond the sporting implications, Glory said the relocation would also have economic consequences for businesses in Ibadan, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators, traders and vendors who could have benefited from the influx of supporters for a continental football fixture.
He also expressed concern over the impact on 3SC supporters, who would now have to travel to Abeokuta to watch the club play what is technically a home fixture, thereby incurring additional transportation costs and other inconveniences.
According to him, public infrastructure should be assessed based on its functionality and ability to serve the people when needed, rather than through political publicity or official claims.
Glory urged the Makinde administration to publish details of the stadium renovation, conduct an independent audit, address all deficiencies identified by CAF and ensure that the facility becomes genuinely fit to host international competitions.
“₦5.5 billion is too much money for excuses,” he declared, adding that Oyo youths deserve competence, accountability and measurable results.
He concluded by saying that the people of Oyo State are watching developments surrounding the project, adding that “EFCC is also watching.”
